The José Martí Award RecipientsOctober 25, 2014

At the national level, the José Martí Foundation recognizes individuals who have made a difference in the lives of English Language Learners and bilingual students. As a partner with the National Association for Bilingual Education (NABE), educators are recognized for their dedication and leadership.

FIU President Dr. Mark B. Rosenberg was the Keynote Speaker at the National Association for Bilingual Education (NABE) Educational Leadership Awards Luncheon that took place in Miami, Florida on October 25, 2014.

Here are some excerpts of his keynote address that relate to English Language Learners (ELLs) and teacher preparation:

“FIU’s College of Education has taken a leadership role in advocating for the effective education of these students.

For more than 30 years, the College of Education has secured millions of dollars in federal funding to effectively prepare teachers to properly address the needs of English language learners.

These grants provide tuition support for teachers to complete degrees with endorsement in this area.

Our teachers in Elementary, Early Childhood and Exceptional Education graduate with an English for Speakers of Other Languages endorsement. This prepares them to work with students who are at varying levels of English language proficiency.

In the last five years,FIU has graduated over 1,300 new teachers with English for Speakers of Other Languages endorsement.”

In recognition of his contributions to academia
and his dedication and commitment to
excellence in education for all students

The José MartíWoman of the Year Leadership Award
Presented to
Helen Aguirre Ferré

In recognition of her contributions as a role model
that has inspired women of all ages
to succeed in our society

The José MartíTeacher of the Year Award
Presented to
Dorina Sackman

In recognition of her contributions to delivering
high quality teaching and educational services
to English Language Learners
to maximize student learning and well-being

NABE Recognition to
Dr. Arnhilda Badia,
President of the José Martí Foundation

“…for your vision, passion and unwavering dedication to giving our cause, Bilingual Education, a prominent, invaluable, and strategic voice…Our deep appreciation and admiration for all you have done on behalf of our students, faculty, parents and community in fostering bilingualism and biliteracy as global imperatives for economic and global competitiveness in the 21st Century…”
Dr. Julio Cruz, President